Today we made it into the hills / mountains surrounding Chiang Mai. A homestay in Baan Huay San Plab Pla was the kick-off for three days away from the tourist track – and away from hot water.
After our arrival in the village we had a short walk around the village, followed by dinner and an introduction to traditional music and instruments.
This evening we went to visit the hilltop temple of Doi Suthep; first we had to climb the 304 steps to get up there. In the temple grounds Yo did give us a quick introduction into the Buddhism, as well as the the rituals observed at this temple.
Today one of the options was a Thai cooking course in one of the cooking schools around town – all joined in for this filling and delicious experience
The first lesson was around how to cut decorations e.g. flowers, leafs and butterflies from carrots and tomatoes. This was followed by a clear soup with meat balls and a red curry with duck and fruit – all super-delicious.
By night train we made it up to Chang Mai.
Here another included attraction was waiting for us – a ride on an elephant in an elephant sanctuary. Afterward we had the option for a trip on a bamboo raft.
After a busy day we met up again in the evening for dinner in the local night market.
Today part two of this South East Asia trip was about to start. After a hotel change and many good-byes to the people, I had traveled with for two weeks, I now was back to zero – new group, new tour leader, new tour company – and once more a pre-departure meeting, followed by a first group dinner.
The next day we enjoyed an included long tail boat trip along Chao Phraya River and one of the khlongs (channels) around. After our return from the khlong tour, we went over to Wat Pho, the temple of the reclining Buddha – and home of the traditional Thai massage.
Today was the last complete day for the Cambodia Discovery tour; after a long and cramped minibus journey we finally made it into Bangkok around 17:00.
We had a farewell dinner in a local restaurant around the corner from the hotel; this was followed by some drinke in the vicinity of Khao San Road.
This gallery contains 11 photos.
Today er a full free day on Koh Chang; I joined Sara, Anne and Kate for a waterfall tour during the day. We were first heading for Than Mayom Waterfall – using a songthaew as mode of transport. Our driver … Continue reading
This morning we caught another ferry – this time heading from Thailand’s main land to Koh Chang – the country’s second largest island. We spent the rest of the day exploring and relaxing.
Today our time in Cambodia had come to an end; we left Cambodia – first by boat to the border, then over to Thailand and to Trat by minibus.
After a long day of (uncomfortable, sweaty) travel we made it into Trat – and did use the opportunity to try the local night market for dinner.
This gallery contains 11 photos.
Today we did a boat trip to some islands and beaches around Sihanouk Ville. After our return to Sihanouk Ville it was back to the beach for some drinks and a Sihanouk Ville phenomenon – many vendors (and as this … Continue reading